Metal injection moulding (MIM) is a hybrid technology
whereby it integrates the shaping capabilities of plastic
injection moulding and materials flexibility of conventional
powder metallurgy. MIM is preferred
for mass manufacturing of small, intricate-geometry
components of a variety of materials as it can achieve
95% to 98% of its wrought materials properties at a
much reduced cost.
MIM Materials Specs
/ The MIM Process Flow Chart
The Technology
The initial step to MIM is material selection and preparation.
Once the appropriate combinations of metal powder and
plastic binders are blended and compounded, an injection
mouldable feedstock is produced. Using an injection-moulding
machine, the parts produced are then subjected to a
binder removal process. Depending upon the type of binder
used, different methods of debinding are applied. The
parts, after debinding, will then go through a sintering
process to ensure the parts are of the right material
composition, physical properties and correct geometry.
The Advantages
Greater design freedom With MIM, parts can be designed
and manufactured without any design restrictions. In
addition, almost all design changes are possible within
the shortest development cycle and turnaround time.
Miniturisation MIM technology is the best viable process
for producing miniature parts economically.
The Applications
MIM technology has found increasing applications in
the commercial world, from home applications to watches,
automobiles to aerospace, medical to weaponry.
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